- Flyweight contenders Tim Elliott and Kai Asakura will face each other in the main card of UFC 319.
- The fight will take place inside the United Center in Chicago on Aug. 16.
- Elliott is the +225 underdog, while Asakura is the -285 favorite.
The flyweight fight between Tim Elliott and Kai Asakura will be the curtain-opener of the UFC 319 main card on Aug. 16, which will happen inside the United Center in Chicago. Both athletes are looking to kick-start another run for the title.
Despite a win in his previous match, Elliott will be the betting underdog heading into the match with +225 UFC odds. Meanwhile, Asakura, whose UFC debut was a loss, is going to be the betting favorite with -285 odds.
UFC 319: Elliott vs. Asakura Odds
- Tim Elliott: +225
- Kai Asakura: -285
UFC 319: Elliott vs. Asakura: Prediction
I predict that Asakura will get the TKO/KO finish against Elliott because he’s much younger and faster than Elliott. The Japanese contender will eventually find the chin of Elliott, who has been inactive throughout 2024.
Elliott’s over a year of inactivity is another major factor. This could affect the fight and play into Asakura’s advantage, as the American athlete would need to shake off the rust. Furthermore, Father Time has caught up with him at 38.
Elliott’s speed, timing, and explosiveness will diminish, though he holds a grappling edge. Asakura could counter Elliott’s takedowns with physicality and youth, creating major problems for Elliott.
If Elliott stands and trades with Asakura, he risks a flying knee knockout. Lunging forward exposes him to a picture-perfect counter right to the chin.
Tim Elliott’s Recent Fight Results
Elliott was a former Titan FC champion when he rejoined the UFC in 2016. He had a successful return bout against Hiromasa Ougikubo. He then challenged Demetrious Johnson for the flyweight belt in his second match but was defeated unanimously.
Since then, he appeared in 13 UFC fights and racked up a record of seven wins and six losses. Elliott’s wins were against Louis Smolka, Mark De La Rosa, Ryan Benoit, Jordan Espinosa, Tagir Ulanbekov, and Victor Altamirano. His most recent fight was a victory over Sumudaerji in December 2023.
Kai Asakura’s Recent Fight Results
Asakura is one of Japan’s top MMA fighters. His outstanding campaign under Rizin, the country’s leading fight organization, shows his well-rounded skills in both striking and grappling.
Due to his undeniable talent, he signed with the UFC in 2024 and faced flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja in his octagon debut. Pantoja’s BJJ skills proved too much, resulting in a second-round submission defeat.
UFC 319: Elliott vs. Asakura: Tale of the Tape
| Tim Elliott | Kai Asakura | |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 38 | 31 |
| Height | 5’7” | 5’8” |
| Reach | 66 inches | 69 inches |
| Leg Reach | 38 inches | 37 inches |
| Record | 21-13-1 | 21-5 |
| Fighting Style | Freestyle | Street Fighter |
| Finishing Rate | 48% | 76% |
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